For Immediate Release
FREE BOOKLET HELPS CANCER PATIENTS COPE WITH TREATMENT SIDE EFFECTS
Describes the latest medical and non-medical techniques for side effect management
NEW YORK, January 15, 2009 — CancerCare has released an updated edition of its free booklet, Understanding and Managing Chemotherapy Side Effects, to help people with cancer understand the causes of chemotherapy side effects and how best to manage them.
"Many people are unaware of the significant advances that have been made in the area of side effect management," notes Diane Blum, executive director of CancerCare. "Today, there are effective treatments for many side effects that can greatly improve the quality of life of patients as they go through chemotherapy."
CancerCare's new booklet discusses common side effects of the chemotherapy, like nausea and vomiting, mouth sores, nerve damage, and fatigue—all which can make it difficult for patients to comply with their treatment plan. It describes the latest medical treatments used to these manage side effects and emphasizes to patients the importance of discussing any side effects they notice with their doctors to ensure that treatment goes as smoothly as possible.
Understanding and Managing Chemotherapy Side Effects also provides patients with practical tips for managing chemotherapy side effects, such as avoiding sweet, fried or fatty foods to prevent nausea, or taking short walks and doing light exercise to relieve fatigue.
The booklet is part of CancerCare's award-winning Connect® series of reader-friendly booklets on the medical, emotional and practical aspects of cancer. All CancerCare Connect® booklets may be downloaded free of charge 
from CancerCare's website or ordered by calling 800-813-HOPE (4673).
About CancerCare
CancerCare is a national nonprofit organization that provides free, professional support services to anyone affected by cancer: people with cancer, caregivers, children, loved ones, and the bereaved. CancerCare programs include counseling, education, financial assistance for qualified individuals to cover treatment-related costs, and practical help. All services are provided by professional oncology social workers and are completely free of charge. Its National Lung Cancer Program offers free education and counseling services to people facing lung cancer and their loved ones. Last year, CancerCare relaunched its website for people affected by lung cancer, at www.lungcancer.org. For more information about CancerCare's free services, call 1-800-812-HOPE (4673) or visit www.cancercare.org.
